What is animal chiropractic

Animal chiropractic is a non-surgical, drug-free approach that involves adjusting the vertebrae of the spine and/or joints of an animal (via hands or instrument) in order to correct improper motion. Improper motion in the joints and/or spine, if not corrected, may also cause disturbances in the normal function of other systems.

Symptoms of an improperly moving spine or joints may be noticeable such as lameness, gait abnormalities, pain, decreased athletic ability, sensitivity to being touched, changes in behavior, changes in routine, and/or changes in posture.

There also may be more subtle signs with respect to nervous system and/or organ function (as the spine and the spinal cord are intimately related). If organs are not receiving normal input from the spinal nerves of the nervous system, they cannot heal and function at a favorable level.

Healthy animals are also candidates for receiving chiropractic care. Maintaining proper movement allows for optimal function of muscles, nerves, ligaments, and tendons- which leads to improved mobility, flexibility, endurance, performance, and decreased risk of injury.

Thus, the goal of animal chiropractic care is to restore or maintain normal movement and function to the spine and joints in order to allow for normal neurologic function, which in turn allows the body to function optimally.  Animal chiropractic can be used as part of an integrative wellness program to maintain an animal’s health.